The Community Social Planning Council of Greater Victoria (CSPC) is excited to be working with the Vancouver Island Social Innovation Zone (VISIZ) to host the Vancouver Island Social Finance Forum on April 5, 2016 at the Ambrosia Centre.

Social finance is a growing practice around the globe that includes community investing, microfinance, social impact bonds, community loan funds for affordable housing and local sustainable businesses. Outcome-based philanthropic program-related investments sometimes referred to as venture philanthropy, also fall under the umbrella of social finance. These approaches to investment share the twin focus of stimulating positive social and environmental returns for investors and communities.

This open event will provide an opportunity for participants to discuss new ideas and strategies

Discuss critical issues relating to Vancouver Island Social Finance

Supply and Demand

Types of Investment

Social and Environmental Impact

Gaps and Challenges

Emerging Opportunities

Develop a strategy to strengthen the sector

Network with Social Innovation Leaders

Vancouver Island Social Finance Study

Throughout February the CSPC will also be contacting key informants to conduct a study of Vancouver Island’s social finance sector. This is an important initiative to gain a better understanding of:

Types of impact being sought

Sources of capital

Risk/return profiles

Summary of projects

Key challenges and opportunities

The results of the study will be made publicly available and will form the basis of an action oriented agenda to strengthen the sector.

For more information regarding participation in the forum or study please feel free to contact: